DxOMark continues its exploration of the past with this very good wide-angle lens that Sigma first produced for Canon mounts in 2003, and while we’re at it, we’ll use this opportunity to compare it with one of the most best-known lenses on the market, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM.

First of all, let’s take a look at the results for the Sigma lens by itself:

Comparison

Both lenses achieve the same DxOMark overall score of 20. When looking at the results a bit more closely, the Sigma’s quality seems actually somewhat lower (see also the DxOMark score map).

In fact, the Sigma’s performance drops off a bit for the greatest focal lengths (starting at 28 mm), due to the fact that the Sigma doesn’t maintain a constant f/2.8. To compensate for the loss of brightness, one must augment the ISO sensitivity - and consequently, noise goes up as well.

Conclusion

The Sigma 17-35mm F2.8-4 EX DG Aspherical HSM Canon is a very good lens for the price. While each lens has its strong and weak points, the Sigma quite frankly manages to hold its own against its pricier Canon rival.

To provide photographers with a broader perspective about mobiles, lenses and cameras, here are links to articles, reviews, and analyses of photographic equipment produced by DxOMark, renown websites, magazines or blogs.